Diarmuid Wilson (Fianna Fail)

I welcome the fact that the Taoiseach will come to the House this afternoon. I thank the Leader for arranging that debate and I look forward to hearing the Taoiseach's contribution.

Last March, the Government took a decision to close Army barracks in Clonmel, Mullingar and Castlebar, as well as Dún Uí Néill Barracks in Cavan town. We were told these were cost saving measures. This morning, I renew my call, which I have made on many occasions, for Dún Uí Néill Barracks, the most modern barracks in Europe, to be reopened, in light of the significant threat from dissidents located just seven miles up the road. The threat is not only to the Border region but to the security of the State.

I ask the Leader to invite the Minister for Justice and Equality, and Defence, to the House to outline the cost savings that have been made to date by the closure of barracks in Clonmel, Mullingar, Castlebar and Cavan and his proposals for the disposal of the properties. I qualify my request by saying I would object to the Minister's disposing of Dún Uí Néill Barracks. I want it reopened. Nevertheless, what proposals does the Minister have for the disposal of the other barracks? Could the Minister, at least, send someone to Cavan to cut the grass and weeds which are now six feet high. This modern barracks which was well maintained until it was closed is now an eyesore at the approach to Cavan town. What are the Minister and the Department of Defence planning to do about these barracks?